As reported in Vintage 2006 in Oregon, the Dundee Hills won their own AVA last year. This 6,490-acre region has crimson, volcanic clay-loam soils that drain very well. Peaks of up to 1,000 feet rise above the Willamette and Chehelem valley floors, trapping warmth from the day and shielding vines from fog and frost, which make ripening such a challenge in the Willamette Valley.
Although I didn't find a consistent Dundee Hills terroir in the small sampling of Pinot Noirs described below, I did find some marvellous wines, and look forward to tasting new releases from other important Dundee Hills...